Taguig, Metro Manila

Santa Ana de Taguig Church

A Living Chronicle of Faith and Heritage

PUBLISHED March 18, 2018

PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

The Santa Ana de Taguig Church, formally the Minor Basilica and Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Anne, is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, established by Augustinian missionaries in 1587. Located in Barangay Santa Ana, Taguig City, it showcases a simple yet dignified barn-style Baroque architecture. Over the centuries, the church has survived natural disasters and undergone several restorations. It was declared a minor basilica in 2022 and recognized as an Important Cultural Property in 2023. Adjacent to the church is the Museo de Sta. Ana, preserving centuries of religious history. Every July 26, the community celebrates the Sta. Anang Banak Festival, highlighting the church’s deep cultural roots and enduring role in Taguig’s heritage.

Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Santa Ana de Taguig Church with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!

Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Santa Ana de Taguig Church. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.

Tucked away in Barangay Santa Ana, Taguig City, the Santa Ana de Taguig Church—formally known as the Minor Basilica and Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Anne—stands as a testament to centuries of Filipino devotion, resilience, and cultural identity. Established in 1587 by Augustinian missionaries, this church is among the oldest in the Philippines, witnessing the ebb and flow of history from the Spanish colonial era to the present day.

Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.

Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.

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Historical Roots and Colonial Beginnings

Founded during the Spanish colonization, the church was initially constructed to serve the spiritual needs of the local community. Over the centuries, it endured natural calamities and underwent several reconstructions. Notably, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1645 and rebuilt in 1848, only to be damaged again and subsequently restored in 1896 under the guidance of Fr. Guillermo Diaz. Here’s the thing: its importance didn’t just stop with local admiration. In 2022, the Vatican officially elevated the church to the status of a minor basilica, making it the first within the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Pasig.

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Architectural Style and Unique Features

The church’s architecture showcases a barn-style Baroque design, characterized by defined vertical and horizontal bays topped with a simple triangular pediment. It’s not overly ornate compared to European cathedrals, but you know what? That’s exactly where its beauty lies — in its solid simplicity. It’s a kind of elegance that’s deeply Filipino: sturdy, dignified, and quietly awe-inspiring. The adaptation of European ecclesiastical architecture into the Philippine setting shows how local builders made the grand visions of Spanish missionaries into something uniquely theirs.

Museo de Sta. Ana and Its Treasures

Adjacent to the church is the Museo de Sta. Ana, established in 1857. The museum houses a collection of religious relics and artifacts that chronicle the rich religious culture and history of Taguig. When you step inside, you’re not just seeing displays; you’re walking through centuries of community life, prayer, and resilience. It’s that kind of quiet, meaningful experience that lingers even after you leave.

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Sta. Anang Banak Festival and Community Spirit

Every July 26, the church and the local government co-host the Sta. Anang Banak Taguig River Festival, a lively fluvial parade honoring St. Anne, the town’s patroness. Boats decorated with vibrant colors sail along the Taguig River, and there’s this tradition called “pasubo” — where fruits, sweets, and native delicacies are tossed between participants and spectators. Honestly, it’s not just a festival. It feels like a communal memory brought to life — a throwback to when the river was the town’s main artery, sustaining livelihoods and binding the community together.

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Historical Roots and Colonial Beginnings

Architectural Style and Unique Features

Museo de Sta. Ana and Its Treasures

Sta. Anang Banak Festival and Community Spirit

National Cultural Recognition

Visiting Santa Ana de Taguig Church

LOCATIONS PROVINCES

ARCHITECTURE HERITAGE

CHURCHES FAITH

NATURAL & MAN-MADE ATTRACTIONS

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

LOCATIONS
PROVINCES

ARCHITECTURE
HERITAGE

CHURCHES
FAITH

NATURAL & MAN-MADE
ATTRACTIONS

FESTIVALS &
EVENTS